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ITV Report

23 December 2012 at 12:57pm

Hundreds evacuated from homes in Barnstaple

Hundreds of people had to be evacuated from their homes in Barnstaple after the River Yeo burst its banks. A refuge centre was set up at Pilton Community College to provide shelter and accommodation for those who had to leave their homes.

The Environment Agency has now lifted the severe weather warning it had in place.

Local residents say it's the worst time of year for flooding to happen.

I just feel so devastated, this side of Christmas. Families are being split up, you're going to have to stay in a hall. It's so upsetting."

– Barnstaple resident

A lot of people are leaving to go to emergency accommodation. Others are moving upstairs and staying put or going to stay with relatives.

– Barnstaple resident

Roads north of Barnstaple were closed because of flooding. Credit: ITV Westcountry